Encourage use of erotic materials (videos, books); suggest masturbation to maximize familiarity with pleasurable sensations; encourage communication during sexual activity; recommend use of vibrators*; discuss varying positions, times of day or places; suggest making a "date" for sexual activity.

Recommend sensual massage, sensate-focus exercises (sensual massage with no involvement of sexual areas, where one partner provides the massage and the receiving partner provides feedback as to what feels good; aimed to promote comfort and communication between partners); oral or noncoital stimulation, with or without orgasm.

10 comments:

i don't agree with using erotic videos and books. it is not uncommon for women to try to use those as a helper for their relationship and have their husband end up with an addiction problem. it happens quite often, actually.

Anon, thank you for your comment. Men and women are both suseptible to addiction and it is definitely something that should be considered when treating sexual dysfunction. Erotica (not pornography), however, can be a valuable tool to "jumpstart your engine." A healthcare provider would be a good resource to discuss this with if you are experiencing sexual dysfunction. Improving sexual arousal and desire can be an important step in bonding and developing a deeper relationship with your spouse. Erotica is merely one tool that has been proven to be effective and can be used in treating sexual dysfunction, but may not be for everyone. Again, please speak to your doctor or therapist.

I used several of those techniques to help with my sexual dysfunction and found it extremely helpful for me! I found masturbation with my spouse to be helpful for learning about my pleasure zones. I know some women are uneasy with that idea so here is another way to become familiar with pleasurable sensations. Sit in a bath tub and turn on the water, then be aware of where the water hits and how that feels.

I wished the above commenter didn't ask anonymously! I probably have the same question :) The treatment strategy said to "Enhance stimulation and eliminate routine. Encourage use of erotic materials (videos, books)"

What do you recommend for women? Everything is usually so male oriented and untasteful...